Hixson project opponents hit plan, blocked from meeting

Hixson project opponents hit plan, blocked from meeting

Opponents of developing a 190-acre site in Hixson today called for sharply scaling back the proposal, and they were blocked from a meeting between the developer and city planners.

"We think it doesn't make sense in scope or direction," said Gregory Vickrey, executive director of the North Chickamauga Creek Conservancy, about the project.

Vickrey and Hixson resident Linden Stricker cited concerns about traffic, erosion and water runoff at the proposed site near state Highway 153 and U.S. Highway 27.

Duane Horton, president of Scenic Land Co., had proposed building a 280-unit apartment complex and 763,00 square feet of commercial space, but withdrew a rezoning request this year amid earlier questions.

Today, he said he was meeting with city planners over traffic issues at the proposed project site.

When opponents tried to enter the meeting at the city's Development Resource Center downtown, they were told it was for planning staff only and asked to leave.